Stealing Parker

SynopsisAfter her family's
scandal rocks their conservative small town, 17-year-old Parker Shelton
goes overboard trying to prove that she won't turn out like her mother: a
lesbian. The all-star third-baseman quits the softball team, drops 20
pounds and starts making out with guys--a lot. But hitting on the hot
new assistant baseball coach might be taking it a step too
far...especially when he starts flirting back.

Some Main CharactersParker Shelton: a high school senior who used to be on the school softball team, but quit after her parents got divorced.Drew: Parker's best friend and a baseball player for their high school.Brian Hoffman: a 23-year-old baseball coach.Corndog: also known as Will, Drew's friend and teammate. He is a bright school who always competes with Parker to be the valedictorian.Ryan: Parker's druggie older brother.Laura: Parker's former best friend.Favorite QuoteSometimes you gotta do what's right for you and forget about everybody else. All that matters is what you want. What you need. ~ chapter 13

ReviewSince I finished Ms. Miranda Kenneally's previous book, Catching Jordan, I have come to love her writing and I was so excited to be able to read her next book. I am glad to say that this book is also fantastic.

Starting out, this novel revolves around a high school senior, Parker Shelton. Parker's life has changed drastically after her mother, who finally comes out of the closet, left Parker to start a new life with her girlfriend. Because of this, Parker has been picked on by her softball teammate that she might be a lesbian just like her mother. It is tough time for Parker, but luckily she has Drew by her side to support her. Since softball reminds her so much of her mother, Parker decides to quit the team and she starts paying more attention on how she looks. In order to prove that she does like boys, not girls, Parker starts hooking up with several different boys. Until she meets a new assistant coach, Brian Hoffman. He is charming, friendly and completely gorgeous. Parker is hooked! The problem is he is six years older...

What I really like about this book is that it teaches you the important of friendship. When Parker is being bullied, Drew always stays by her side supporting her, which makes it easier for Parker to cope. Besides, it shows us that as long as we are happy with our choices, we do not have to worry about what other people think. Parker's mother is through with living a lie. She comes out and changes her life. I admire that. Unlike her mother, Parker's father puts all his attention on what others have to say about him. He even breaks up with his new girlfriend just because people from his church say it is not the right thing for him to do.

This book focuses a lot on religion. How Parker and her family always go to church every Sunday is not that difficult to relate to even I am not that very religious. What surprised me was that the people at their church are so judgmental and their behavior toward Parker and her family after the mother comes out is so not Christian-like. Parents tell their kids to stop associating with Parker. People talk sh*t behind others' back. It is ridiculous that they consider themselves Christians and what they do is completely opposite.

Nevertheless, this book reminds me too much of Catching Jordan. Probably it is because the author seemed to follow the same pattern which has made the book a bit predictable. However, this book is still very enjoyable in its own way. The characters are well-thought-out and likeable. And have I mentioned that Jordan and her man appeared in this book also? Well, it was kind of like a cameo, but yes, they were in this book as well. If you enjoyed Catching Jordan, I am sure you'll love this one as well.